Controlling Static in Data Centers

Controlling static in data centers is crucial for maintaining the reliability and longevity of critical electronic equipment. Let’s examine the reasons why static poses a problem in data centers and explore effective solutions.

The Impact of Static in Data Centers

Hardware Damage due to ESD:

Static electricity can destroy sensitive electronic components via Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).  ESD is when a person or object with an electrostatic charge touches a computer component, which results in a spark that can burn a hole or destroy a component. Even a small discharge so tiny that a human cannot feel it (as low as 10 volts) can damage integrated circuits, memory modules, and other hardware. ESD can cause immediate failure or weaken components over time.  Controlling static has long been a priority for manufacturers of computer equipment and other manufactures working with electronics.

Contamination & Dust Attraction:

Electrostatic Attraction (ESA) is when static charges attract dust particles. A charged surface can act as a magnet for even minimal contamination in the air.  Dust buildup on components can obstruct airflow, increase operating temperatures, and reduce system efficiency. Over time, this accumulation can also lead to hardware failures.

Solutions for Controlling Static in Data Centers

Personnel Grounding:

People are the greatest source of static generation & damage.  Voltage is generated on the body as people move and it is important for personnel working in data centers to ground themselves by wearing straps and by using non-charging equipment. Wrist straps are the most common method to connect to a common ground via a coiled cord, preventing static buildup on their bodies.

Heel grounders serve a similar purpose for mobile operators, grounding personnel through their shoes when standing on an ESD control floor.

• Personnel Grounding

ESD Gloves:

Technicians should wear ESD assembly gloves when handling components. ESD gloves are made from conductive materials that prevent ESD as well as contamination from hand oils.

Cut-resistant ESD gloves provide the same ESD benefits  with additional protection against cuts while handling sharp objects.  ESD Hot Gloves are worn when handling items at high temperatures.

• ESD Gloves

ESD Flooring:

Data centers should consider investing in static control flooring. These specialized floors have conductive properties that prevent static buildup on the personnel and provide a safe path for static charges to dissipate of the body. ESD flooring also reduces the risk of personnel-generated static when walking or moving equipment.  Some companies may choose to cover all floors with ESD tiles or Anti-Static Floor Paint while others will use ESD mats in specific areas.  ESD mats can provide additional Anti-Fatigue benefits as well protecting the appearance of the floor beneath.

• FM7 ESD Floor Runners and Chair Mats
• FM8 ESD Tiles
• FM9 Anti-Fatigue Runners

ESD Table Mats:

Workstations where equipment is handled or stored should be equipped with ESD table mats. These mats provide a grounded surface for assembling and repairing hardware.

Technicians can place components on these mats to prevent ESD during handling.

• MT4500 Table Mats – General Use Soldering Mats
• VMB VinylSTAT Cushioning ESD Mats

Ionizing Blower & Ionizing Guns

Ionizers emit air filled with ions that neutralize static charges on surfaces. Ionizing benchtops or overhead blowers can be used to protect up to a 4′-6′ area workstation from static when working with hardware.

• BFN801 – Benchtop Blower
• BFN802 – 2 fan Overhead Blower
• BFN803 – 3 fan Overhead Blower

Ionizing Guns are used to clean equipment.  They work twofold: as a forceful blow off gun that easily removes particulate from surfaces and as a neutralizer to remove the charges responsible for the attraction of contaminants to product surfaces.

• IN6430 – Ionizing Gun
• IN6200 – Ionizing Gun with Filter
• BFNG10- Ionizing Gun

ESD Wipers:

ESD wipers are specialized wipers that do not generate a significant static charge when  cleaning equipment. Regular cleaning with standard wipers may induce a charge through friction that attracts dust.  ESD Wipers help remove dust and prevents static buildup.

• ESD Wipers

Elimination of Non-Essential Plastics:

A rule in ESD prevention is to eliminate all non-essential sources of ESD with plastic being the biggest source. Replace common items like trash cans, trash liners, computer peripherals (mouse and keyboard), pens, and sheet protectors with ESD-safe versions. The ESD-safe versions are made from antistatic materials, which to not significantly turbocharge reducing the risk of static buildup and ESD.

• ESD Accessories 

Summary: Controlling Static in Data Centers

By implementing static control measures, data centers can significantly reduce the impact of ESD, enhance equipment reliability, and minimize costly downtime due to hardware failures. Data centers should create Static Safe areas to work on electronics and ground personnel.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to static control!

 

New Product Announcement: SC50BS Series – ESD Washable Cleanroom Shoe Covers

Washable Cleanroom Shoe Covers with ESD Rubber Soles and Conductive Grounding Ribbons are an economical way to maintain cleanliness and ESD protection in controlled in environments and static sensitive areas.

The SC50BS cleanroom shoe covers made with static dissipative cleanroom fabric, dissipative ESD rubber for the soles and conductive ground ribbons to make contact with the body. The ESD washable cleanroom shoe covers work well with most common shoes and boots but also work well when worn inside laundered cleanroom boot covers such as our TX4000 ESD Soft Sole Boots. The surged-seam inside shoe cover design features an elastic opening that fits most regular shoe styles with a secure fit.  A full length non-woven conductive carbon grounding ribbon is added to the bottom of our ESD Shoe Covers to remove the static from personnel.

• ESD Cleanroom Covers: Ideal for cleanrooms, labs, manufacturing facilities, and other sterile environments that are concerned with static and ESD damage
• Grounding: Provides a path-to-ground for static charges and
• Cleanroom Class: Suitable for use in critical environments up to Class 1000 cleanrooms
• Sale Unit: Sold in Pairs
• Standards: Complies with the ANSI/ESD S20.20 required limit tested per ESD SP9.2 & ESD TR53 as suitable ESD footwear component in personnel grounding flooring/footwear system
• Options: Available in White.  Other colors available by request

For price and availability on the SC50BS Series ESD Cleanroom Shoe Covers or for information on any products in Transforming Technologies full line of ESD products, please call 419-841-9552 or email info@transforming-technologies.com.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”248115″ img_size=”Full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Black ESD Jackets makes your Quality Control Department stand out!

Black ESD Jackets are an excellent choice for your quality control department because they show less stains and dirt, plus everything matches black.  Transforming Technologies offers ESD Jackets in our lightweight 8812 ESD fabric and our Medium weight 9010 ESD Fabric.  We have several styles:

• Lapel Collar in Knit Cuff
• Lapel Collar in Snap Cuff
• V-Neck in Snap Cuff
• V-Neck in Knit Cuff

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”247732,247711,247537,36851,36841,27411,27361,36861,19672,18812,18792″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]ESD jackets are a recommended addition to a program that already includes typical grounding measures, such as wrist straps and heel grounders.  This is because of the potential hazard of the operator’s clothing.  The ESD TR20.20-20 states: “While a person may be grounded using a wrist strap or other grounding methods, that does not mean that insulative clothing fabrics can dissipate a charge to that person’s skin and then to ground. Personnel clothing usually is electrically separate or isolated from the body.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Call 419-841-9552 and ask for a sample of our Black ESD Jackets.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How ESD Jackets Work

ESD jackets, also commonly known as ESD smocks, ESD lab coats or ESD garments, offer protection from electrostatic fields generated by clothing on the user’s body.  ESD jackets are worn where ever static damage is a concern primarily in electronics manufacturing, semiconductor and other industries concerned with ESD Damage.  ESD jackets are the most visible sign of ESD protection and any facility that mandates ESD garments demonstrates a commitment ESD protection.

ESD jackets are a recommended addition to a program that already includes typical grounding measures, such as wrist straps and heel grounders.  This is because of the potential hazard of the operator’s clothing.  The ESD TR20.20-20 states: “While a person may be grounded using a wrist strap or other grounding methods, that does not mean that insulative clothing fabrics can dissipate a charge to that person’s skin and then to ground. Personnel clothing usually is electrically separate or isolated from the body.”

ESD jackets are typically made from a polyester, cotton or blend of those fabrics in many colors with blue being most common. ESD jackets differ from common work garments because they contain a grid of conductive fibers imbedded throughout the garment. ESD Jackets work by creating a “Faraday Cage” effect around the body of the operator, that shields static charges generated from the operator’s clothing that could damage devices that are sensitive to static electricity.  ESD jackets can have a lapel collar or v-neck with sleeve terminations of a snap cuff or ESD knit cuff.  ESD jacket cuffs are explained here.

Three are three levels of ESD jackets according to ANSI ESD S20.20 standards.  At minimum, a ESD jacket must test as dissipative (surface resistivity of < 1 x 10^11 ohms resistance).  If the fabric of ESD clothing is conductive enough, it can also be used as a groundable static control garment. This means the wearer can be grounded through their ESD clothing. To be considered a groundable static control garment, the garment must have reliable panel-to-panel or sleeve-to-sleeve continuity  – meaning electricity can flow freely across the clothing and safety dissipated to ground.  If it does not have continuity, a section of the garment may become an isolated conductor,  hold a charge and potentially cause an ESD event.  ESD Jackets are tested with a Surface Resistance Meter or a Personal Ground Tester and we explain the ANSI ESD Standards test here.

Transforming Technologies Supplies Five Types of ESD Jackets in many shapes and sizes. View our full line of ESD jackets here.

Contact us at 419-841-9552 today to learn more!

 

ESD Standards Explained:  ANSI ESD STM2.1 Is the Standard Test Method for ESD Garments

What is ANSI ESD STM2.1?

ANSI ESD STM2.1 is the standard test method for ESD Garments. The document provides the test methods used for evaluating the electrical resistance of static control garments that contain surface conductive or dissipative materials.  ANSI/ESD STM 2.1 requires that all garment materials tested be cleaned a minimum of three times prior the start of testing.  The standard also lists the requirements of the testing device – a Resistance Measuring Meter.

ANSI ESD STM2.1 is the method used to verify a garment meets ANSI/ESD S20.20 standards. ANSI/ESD S20.20 defines the required limits for Static Control Garments that are to be used in an ESD control program where ESD sensitive devices are handled.  ESD Garments must fall into one of three categories to be considered compliant.   The minimum requirements is a point-to-point resistance of less than 1.0×10^11 ohms.

Both standards can be purchased from ANSI.ORG or the ESDA.ORG

ANSI ESD STM2.1 Definitions

Body Contact Point (BCP): The portion of the ESD control item that makes electrical contact with the human body

Ground Termination Point (Gtp): The end of the bonding conductor that attaches to the common connection point to common point ground with the Electrostatic Protected Area (EPA)

Resistance Point-to-Point (Rpp): The resistance in ohms (Ω) measured from one cylindrical electrode to the other clyndrical electrode on the surface of the same panel, between two different panels or between two Body Contact Points (BCP) of a garment

Resistance Point-to-Groundable-Point (Rpgp): The resistance in ohms (Ω) measured between a single cylindrical electrode placed on a surface and a garment groundable point (Gp)

 

Do You Require ANSI ESD STM2.1 Garment Testing?

Do you need to test your garments to ANSI ESD STM2.1 and to ANSI/ESD S20.20?  We can provide the test equipment required for you to preform the tests on your own or we can do the testing for you in our humidity controlled chamber.

Test Equipment Required for ANSI ESD STM2.1 Garment Testing?

The following test kits can perform the test required for ANSI Garment Testing

• Metriso 3000 Test Kit
• Metriso B530 Test Kit
• SRM200 Test Kit
• SRM500K Test Kit

Our surface resistance meters can be found here:

https://testvariations.kinsta.cloud/product-category/test-equiptment/surface-resistance-meters/

Contact us at 419-841-9552 or fill out the form below and ask about ANSI ESD STM2.1 testing.

[gravityform id=”212″ title=”false” description=”true”]

 

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

What Are ESD Ionizing Guns

ESD ionizing guns eliminates static electricity and cleans products in many industries concerned with ESD such as Electronics, Semiconductor, Medical Device and Industrial markets. Ionizing guns are handheld blow off devices that produce a high-velocity ionized air flow which simultaneously cleans and neutralizes static charges on parts and materials. Ionizing guns utilize compressed air or nitrogen and are suitable for pinpoint, high-pressure air purging static elimination.  They may also use filters to clean the compressed air.

Static neutralizing ionizing guns make it easier to clean surfaces and materials clean while preventing the reattraction of dirt particles.  The Air Ionizing Guns are perfect for “Point-of-Use” Ionization. A Lightweight and ergonomic gun uses a long air hose that allows the operator to point the gun nozzle directly at the target on final electronic assembly stations. Strong blow-off power also effectively removes particle contamination.  Ionizing guns are widely use in electronics, assembly, packaging, painting and finishing applications.

Want to learn more about ionizers?  View our Primer:  ESD Ionizers for Static Control

View all of our ESD Ionizer Options [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]

[/vc_column][/vc_row]

Why Choose Anti-static Cut Resistant Gloves

Why should a company choose anti-static cut resistant gloves to help eliminate static in their manufacturing process?  ESD gloves are essential for workers who handle or assemble electronic devices, such as electronics, automotive, and semiconductor engineers. Using ESD gloves can provide the many benefits including worker safety and increase product quality.

A company that works with sensitive electronics should choose ESD cut resistant gloves for the following reasons:

• Anti-static gloves can protect sensitive components from electrostatic discharge (ESD), which can cause damage, failure, or increased warranty claims. In some applications, ESD gloves are even required according to ANSI ESD 20.20 industry standards.
• Cut resistant gloves can protect employees from cuts and slashes from sharp objects and tools, which can cause injury, infection, or contamination.
• Anti-static cut resistant gloves can reduce the need for buying and keeping inventory of two different gloves, one for ESD protection and one for cut protection, which can save money, space, and time.

Choose Anti-static Cut Resistant Gloves

Choosing ESD cut resistant gloves can offer a dual benefit of safety and efficiency for a manufacturing company that works with electronics.

Transforming Technologies has a variety of ESD Gloves and two types of  Cut Resistant Gloves to consider:

• GL2500 Series Cut Level 3
• GL6500 Series Cut Level 6

Call us at 419-841-9552 for more information on our ESD Gloves or visit our Contact Us page.  You can request samples and testing data to help make your gloves decision.

Transforming Technologies offers a wide range of critically important quality control products to the technology and manufacturing industries. Our products are key tools used by industries to assure an effective ESD control program for protecting sensitive electronics from static and contamination. We specialize in: ESD Gloves, Grounding Products, Cleanroom Supplies, ESD Jackets and Lab Coats, Ionizers, ESD Matting, and Test & Monitoring Equipment.

Question: Do I Need to Ground an ESD Mat That is Sitting On A ESD Floor?

Answer: No. But Only If Your Mat Passes a Resistance to Ground Test

In many cases an ESD mat that is sitting on an ESD floor does not need to be hard grounded.  However, you need to measure the mats resistance-to-ground (RTG) to make sure that it is < 1.0 x 10⁹ ohm when sitting on the ESD floor.  Testing is a required step for all ESD programs and is important step in this ESD mat/floor setup.

Adding ESD mats to an area with an ESD floor is a great idea, especially ESD anti-fatigue mats for standing personnel or ESD chair mats to protect the floor from wear and tear from wheels.  Because ESD mats have dissipative properties, static can flow from the mat and continue through the ESD floor to ground.  If your set up passes your RTG test, there is no need to add a ground wire to the ESD mats.

If you need to test your floors, the Metriso 3000 resistance test kit is an excellent tool for the job.

How to Comply with DA PAM 385-64 Ammunition and Explosives Safety Standards with Anti-Static Products

Ammunition departments of the US military required to use specific materials and equipment called Anti-Static Products to comply with DA PAM 385-64 and ensure the safety and performance of your operations. One of the areas that you need to pay attention to is the prevention of electrostatic discharge (ESD).  ESD or commonly known as a spark, is the sudden flow of electricity between two objects that have different electric potentials. A common example of ESD, is the shock people feel after touching a metal doorknob after walking on a carpet. But most ESD events can’t be seen or felt by people. ESD can cause serious damage or destruction to sensitive electronic devices such as sensors, and detonators, as well as to ammunition and explosives (AE), such as bullets, rockets, grenades, and mines.

To avoid ESD hazards, you need to comply with the Ammunition and Explosives Safety Standards according to DA PAM 385-64, which is the Army’s policy on ammunition and explosives safety standards. This standard prescribes the safety requirements for operations involving AE, such as storage, transportation, handling, testing, and disposal. It also provides guidance on how to create an ESD-protected area (EPA), where all the materials and equipment can safely discharge static electricity to the ground. An EPA should also have proper grounding, humidity control, and signage to warn people of the potential hazards.

One of the ways to create an EPA is to use anti-static products, which are specially designed to prevent static buildup and discharge. These products are made of anti-static materials, such as metal or conductive rubber and plastic that have low resistance and can dissipate static charges to the ground. They also have ESD symbols and labels to indicate their compliance with the industry standards.

Some of the examples of anti-static products that you can use to comply with DA PAM 385-64 are:

• Conductive floor mats: These are mats that are placed on the floor of an EPA to provide a path for static electricity to flow to the ground. They are usually made of rubber or vinyl with a conductive layer and must be connected to ground.
• Anti-static trash cans and liners: These are trash cans and liners that are used to dispose of waste materials that may generate or retain static charges, such as paper, plastic, or foam. They are made of conductive or dissipative materials that can prevent static buildup and discharge.
• Wrist straps and heel grounders: These are personal grounding devices that are worn by personnel who work with AE or electronic devices in an EPA. Wrist straps are bands that are worn around the wrist and connected to a grounding system, such as a metal clip or a cord. Heel grounders are straps that are attached to the heel of the shoe and are used with ESD floor mats.

In addition to these products, you can also use some other accessories that can enhance your ESD protection and compliance, such as:

• Earthing table mats: These are mats that are placed on the table or the workbench of an EPA to provide a surface for working with AE or electronic devices.
• General Office Accessories: ESD-safe keyboards and mouse, Ship Travelers, Tape, Pens, Badge Holds are all overlooked sources of ESD damage.
• ESD Combo Testers and Wrist Strap Tester:  Regular testing of ESD Grounding Products is required for safety.

If you are interested in purchasing anti-static products to comply with DA PAM 385-64, contact Transforming Technologies which offers a wide range of quality control products for the technology and manufacturing industries. You can set up a 15 min meeting any time with one of their ESD experts to discuss your application.

Remember, anti-static products are not only a good idea, but a necessity for the ammunitions department of the US military. By using them, you can protect your AE and electronic devices from ESD and comply with the Ammunition and Explosives Safety Standards.

 

How to Wash ESD Jackets

ESD Jackets are an excellent tool in your ESD program. Washing them correctly is important to ensure a long life and proper operation.

Wash ESD Jackets in cool water with liquid detergent and hang dry or tumble dry on low setting.  Avoid high heat, and do not use bleach and fabric softener. 

We explain in detail below:

Water Temperature
ESD jackets are sensitive to heat so wash ESD jackets in cool or cold water (max temperature of 90°F).

Detergent 
Most commercially available liquid detergent is safe, but do not use Bleach or Fabric Softener. Bleach can cause deterioration in the conductive components of your garments, and fabric softener may interfere with moisture absorbency as well as mask any soil release finish it may have.

Drying
Hang dry your garments when possible. Many ESD-safe garments are temperature sensitive, so you do not want to hurt their conductivity during the drying process. Also ESD-safe garments tend to dry fast. If you must use a dryer, tumble dry only on lowest setting.

Ironing
Avoid ironing if you can, as the heat may hurt the ESD-safe properties of your garments. This is another reason why it is best to hang dry, as you will have to iron your garments less. If you must iron, only iron on lowest setting.

Laundry Service
Many companies choose to use a commercial laundry service to wash their ESD jackets.  A laundry service should follow procedure they would use with a cleanroom garment or coverall or use the recommendation above.

If there are questions about washing an ESD jacket, contact the manufacture for their recommendations.

View Transforming Technologies full line of ESD jackets here.  

Choosing the Right Gloves for Electronics Repair:

Transforming Technologies GL4500 ESD Inspection Gloves

Choosing the right gloves for electronics repair is important.  Electronics repair is a delicate process that requires precision, attention to detail, and the right tools. When it comes to protecting sensitive electronic components during assembly and inspection, having the right gloves is crucial. Enter the Transforming Technologies GL4500 ESD Inspection Gloves—a game-changer for anyone working with computers, cell phones, game systems, or high-end electronics.

Why Are ESD Gloves Essential?

ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) gloves play a vital role in preventing damage to electronic devices. Here’s why they are essential:

1. Static Control: ESD gloves are designed to dissipate static charges, preventing electrostatic discharge that could harm sensitive components.
2. Contamination Prevention: These gloves keep fingerprints, oils, and other contaminants away from delicate surfaces, ensuring optimal performance.
3. Tactile Sensitivity: A good pair of ESD gloves allows you to handle small components with precision, even when wearing them.

Introducing the Transforming Technologies GL4500 ESD Inspection Gloves

Features:

1. Uncoated for Maximum Breathability: The GL4500 gloves are made from a seamless nylon and conductive carbon nylon knit. They won’t leave fingerprints or contamination on your electronics.
2. Dissipative Nylon Construction: These gloves reduce charge generation, making them ideal for handling ESD-susceptible items.
3. Reusable and Machine Washable: Unlike disposable gloves, the GL4500 gloves can be laundered for repeated use.
4. Excellent Fit: The fine gauge knit construction ensures breathability, comfort, and flexibility.

Specifications:

• Resistance: 10^6 – 10^8 ohms per ANSI/ESD STM15.1.
• Fabric Composition: Conductive nylon yarn, carbon suffused Carbon 5.1%, Polyamide 10%, Elastic 10.4%, Nylon 74.5%.

Applications:

• Semiconductor Manufacturing: Handling delicate chips and components.
• SMT Assembly: Surface mount technology assembly.
• Disk Drive Assembly: Precise work on hard drives.
• Electronics Inspection: Ideal for quality control checks.

Product Numbers:

• GL4501: X-Small
• GL4502: Small
• GL4503: Medium
• GL4504: Large
• GL4505: X-Large
• GL4506: 2X-Large

Why Choose the GL4500 ESD Inspection Gloves?

1. Breathability: The uncoated design ensures maximum airflow, reducing hand fatigue during long repair sessions.
2. Tactile Sensitivity: You’ll feel confident handling tiny components without sacrificing precision.
3. Cost-Effective: With 12 pairs per pack, these reusable gloves are a smart investment.
4. Quality Assurance: Transforming Technologies is a trusted name in ESD control products.

Conclusion

When it comes to electronics repair, don’t compromise on protection. The Transforming Technologies GL4500 ESD Inspection Gloves strike the perfect balance between functionality, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. Keep your electronics safe and your hands comfortable—choose the GL4500 gloves for your next repair project!

Remember, the right gloves can make all the difference in preserving the integrity of your valuable electronic devices!

 

Developing a good Compliance Verification of ESD Control Elements program requires more than just putting ESD controls into place, it requires a plan to verify that the controls are working as intended.

Companies make significant investments in ESD control, in an effort to greatly reduce the chance that electronic components are damaged or destroyed by electrostatic discharges.  Significant dollars are spent on ESD control elements such as work surfaces, packaging, flooring, ionization, testing and monitoring, smocks and grounding.  These control elements are often selected after careful consideration and assurance that they will perform as designed.  Industry standards, such as ANSI/ESD S20.20 and IEC 61340-5-1 include test methods to assure that the ESD control elements will perform, even in challenging conditions (such as low humidity).  Many companies select ESD control products that can demonstrate that they meet the requirements listed in the standards.

Compliance Verification

Once the ESD control elements have been selected and installed, regular testing must be conducted to verify that they are still functioning as intended.  Broken wires, contaminated surfaces and worn-out materials can all lead to the failure of the control elements.   However, these failures will not be detected if regular testing does not occur.

ESD TR53 Compliance Verification

The ESD Association has published a compliance verification document that details how to test each ESD control element to verify that it is still functioning as intended.   (ESD TR53 Compliance Verification).  This document is referenced in ANSI/ESD S20.20 ESD Association Standard for the Development of an Electrostatic Discharge Control Program for Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies, and Equipment (Excluding Electrically Initiated Explosive Devices).  

ESD TR53 provides requirements for test equipment to be used and outlines procedures for conducting the test to verify compliance to the S20.20 standard.  There are step by step instructions on how to conduct the test.   What TR53 does not provide however, is guidance on how to discover the causes for test failures.

Compliance Verification Training

Most companies have a dedicated person, or persons, to conduct regular testing of the ESD control elements.   It is important that someone in the factory understands not only how to correctly perform the testing, but to understand the potential failure mechanisms for materials that do not meet the established limits.  Is it worn out materials, broken wires, contaminated or compromised surfaces, or could it even be a test instrument failure?

TR53 Certified Auditor Training

Training programs exist that provide extensive training on how to audit your ESD controls to verify that they are functioning correctly.   The training goes in depth on the operation of test instruments, correct procedures for testing and trouble shooting when the measurements do not meet expectations.

The ESDA has recognized this program as an official certification program for TR53.  

What are the ESD Glove standards?

ESD gloves are specialized gloves that protect against static and electrostatic discharge (ESD). They are made with specialized materials that prevent the build-up of static electricity, which can cause damage to sensitive equipment. ESD gloves are essential for workers who handle sensitive electronic equipment such as in the electronics, medical, automotive, and semiconductor industries. But how do you know if your ESD gloves meet the required standards and regulations for your industry and application? In this article, we will explain what standards and regulations ESD gloves comply to and why they matter for your safety and quality.

What are the Common Standards and Regulations for ESD Gloves?

There are various standards and regulations for ESD gloves that apply to different industries, applications, and regions. Some of the common standards and regulations for ESD gloves are:

• ANSI/ESD S20.20:ANSI/ESD S20.20 is a standard that specifies the requirements for an ESD control program for organizations that handle, process, or assemble electrostatic-sensitive devices. ANSI/ESD S20.20 covers the design, implementation, and maintenance of an ESD control program, including the selection, use, and testing of ESD protective equipment, such as ESD gloves.
• EN 16350:EN 16350 is a standard that specifies the test methods and performance requirements for protective gloves against electrostatic risks. EN 16350 covers the measurement of the surface resistance, the static decay time, and the resistance to the ground of protective gloves, as well as the classification of the gloves according to their anti-static performance.
• IEC 61340: 

  IEC 61340 is a series of standards that specify the general requirements and test methods for the protection of electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena. IEC 61340 covers the principles, definitions, and terminology of electrostatics, as well as the measurement techniques, evaluation methods, and control procedures for electrostatic discharge, electrostatic fields, and triboelectric charging.

Why It Matters to Comply with Standards and Regulations for ESD Gloves

Complying with standards and regulations for ESD gloves is important for several reasons, such as:

• Quality: Complying with standards and regulations for ESD gloves can ensure the quality and reliability of products from damage or degradation that can result from static electricity. It can also prevent contamination from electrostatic attraction that can result from dust, dirt and oils.
• Efficiency: Complying with standards and regulations for ESD gloves can improve the efficiency and productivity of work by reducing the need for rework, repair, or replacement of damaged or defective products.
• Compliance: Complying with standards and regulations for ESD gloves can also reduce the risk of non-compliance, which can result in fines, penalties, or loss of reputation.
• Safety: Complying with standards and regulations for ESD gloves can ensure the safety of workers and products from the harmful effects of static electricity, such as electric shocks, sparks, fires, and explosions.

Conclusion

ESD gloves are specialized gloves that protect workers from static electrical discharges. ESD gloves are a smart and simple way to protect yourself and your products from static electricity.

Complying with standards and regulations for ESD gloves can ensure the safety, quality, and efficiency of ESD gloves and the products and workers they protect. Visit the www.esda.org for more information on USA standards and the www.en-standard.eu for European standards.

Transforming Technologies has a variety of ESD Gloves to consider.  Call us at 419-841-9552 for more information on our ESD Gloves or visit our Contact Us page.  You can request samples and testing data to help make your gloves decision.

We supply the following ESD Gloves for Static Protection:

• ESD Cut Gloves
• ESD Hot Gloves
• ESD Inspection Gloves

 

What Does High Fail Vs. Low Fail Mean when you are testing ESD wrist straps?   The wrist strap is the most common and effective method for removing voltage from operators working with static sensitive devices. Unfortunately, over time, soil build up or mechanical issues can cause a wrist strap to fail.  Therefore, wrist straps must be tested regularly with an ESD Test Station to assure that people are not transferring voltage sensitive devices and causing ESD damage.

Many common ESD Testers have a both a High Limit and a Low Limit for wrist straps:

High Limit for a Wrist Strap

Industry standards (ANSI/ESD S20.20) requires a wrist strap to have a resistance of less than 35 megohms. Anything above that, and you will receive a “high fail” alarm from the ESD tester. When the resistance of a wrist strap is too high, excess voltage may build up on the body and could cause an ESD event. The high fail can be can be caused by:

1. High skin resistance (have the operator use an electronics approved lotion).
2. Soiled or poorly fitted wrist band (check that the band is snug and not overly worn).
3. Broken coil cord.  It is possible that the wire inside the cord has been damaged.

Lower Limit for a Wrist Strap

Most wrist strap testers also test for low resistance (typical low fail is less than 750K ohms) , to assure that the 1 megohm resistor is present and performing as intended.  The purpose of the 1 megohm resistor is for safety: to limit the amount of current that could be transferred through the body. The 1 megohm resistor is designed to limit the current to 250 microamps at 250 Volts rms AC, which is below the perception level of humans. A “low fail” result can be caused by

1. The person is connected to ground via another path, i.e., touching a grounded metal structure.
2. The most common cause of a fail low is a shorted resistor in the wrist strap coil cord. Replace the coil cord with a new one and repeat the test.

Summary
If an ESD Wrist Strap fails high, it means the wrist strap’s resistance is too high and is not removing voltage efficiently. If it fails low, the wrist strap may have an issue with the 1 meg resistor, which is a safety concern. Either way, the wrist strap or coil cord should be replace to ensure you are protected from damaging ESD.

Air ionization is used to reduce the charge from process essential insulators and isolated conductor that cannot be grounded.   ESD sensitive devices can be damaged when they contact charged conductors or if they are grounded in the presence of an electrostatic field.  Air ionization creates a cloud of positive and negative ions that neutralize the charge on objects that cannot be effectively connected to ground.

Two of the more popular types of ionizers used today are AC and Steady State DC.  While both technologies are effective in neutralizing charges, AC Technology offers some distinct advantages.  Both technologies use power supplies to apply high voltage to sharp emitter points.  Positive high voltage creates positive ions and negative voltage creates negative ions.   Both AC and DC ionizers require air flow to effective move the ions away from the emitter points and to the target area.

DC Ionizers

DC Technology incorporates dedicated negative and positive power supplies as well as negative and positive emitter points for creating a balance of ions.  The high voltage applied to the emitter points causes wear and particle attraction, however the wear is not equal between the two polarities.  The voltage must be adjusted to one emitter point to assure equal ion production, which requires a more costly voltage monitoring circuit in the ionizer.  DC ionizer emitter points also require more frequent cleaning as oppositely charged particles are attracted to the emitter points and the balance of ion output needs to be monitored more frequently.

AC Ionizers

AC Ionizers use a single power supply that switches between positive and negative voltage and each emitter point produces both positive and negative ions.  Alternating positive and negative voltage to each emitter point creates even wear and significantly less particle attraction, which makes maintaining even balance much easier and less expensive. 

Transforming Technologies offers a variety of high quality, high performance AC ionizers with ion balance of ±10 volts, which is well below the industry standard of <±35 volts.   Styles range from Benchtop (BFN series, IN series), Overhead (BFN, IN), Ionizing guns (BFN, IN), Nozzles (IN) and bars (Scion).  View the Transforming Technologies website to see our complete range of ionization.

In a world full of static, you need to protect your sensitive electronics from being destroyed. Transforming Technologies offers an extensive selection of static control products, such as ionizers, matting and more to keep your products safe. But what about your personnel?  Grounding your workers is an essential function of an ESD Program.  These products are grouped into a category called Personal Grounding.  View all of our personal grounding products on our website.

Contact 419-841-9552 for more information!

Typical ESD products found in manufacturing environments include grounding straps, table matting and ESD jackets. But did you know that common, everyday items such as trashcans or pens, can be a potential threat to your static sensitive items? Transforming Technologies provides ESD safe versions of products that are commonly overlooked products in ESD protected areas.

ESD Product Accessories Include:

• Labels
• Tapes
• Pens
• Signs
• Trash Cans
• Curtains
• Badge Holders
• Sheet Protectors

View all of our ESD Accessories on our website.

Contact 419-841-9552 for more information!

Transforming Technologies is proud to supply Warmbier brand ESD products. Wolfgang Warmbier is Europe’s premier brand of ESD products. Their ESD Test Instruments are precision engineered products that provide powerful ESD testing and reporting. With a built-in market of European owned manufacturers, Wambier products are highly sought after in North America.

We stock the following products in the USA:

• PGT120 ESD Tester
• Resistance Meters
• Walking Test Kits
• Audit Kits
• Field Meters

View all of our Warmbier Products on our website.

Contact 419-841-9552 for more information!